Fortress of Ivan the Terrible

The fortress of Ivan the Terrible or Vologda Kremlin is a partially preserved urban fortifications of the XVI century. In the XVI-XVII centuries, the Kremlin was an important part of the defensive fortifications of the city, repeatedly participated in battles. Now it is a historical and architectural ensemble of the central part of the city.

The fortress was founded in 1567 by order of Ivan the Terrible and was an important stronghold with powerful walls, towers and many guns. The complex covered an area of 56 hectares and included 12 towers, seven gates and several buildings. In the XVII-XVIII centuries, the fortress lost its importance and was gradually dismantled. Today, the Sophia Cathedral of the XVI century, the Bishops’ Court, the Church of the Intercession of the XVIII century, several moats and parts of the foundation of stone walls have been preserved.